A urinalysis for a cat costs $50-$150 and is one of the most basic diagnostic tests in veterinary medicine. It detects kidney disease, diabetes, urinary tract infections, and crystals. Quick, affordable, and often catches problems blood tests miss.
Measures concentration, pH, protein, glucose, blood, bilirubin, and cells. Microscopy checks for crystals and bacteria. Dilute urine is often the first sign of kidney disease in cats-detected before blood values change. Often the earliest indicator of kidney disease
Cystocentesis (needle into bladder) is the gold standard and well-tolerated. Free catch uses non-absorbent litter at home. Catheterization for specific situations. In-house results in 30 minutes. Cystocentesis is the most accurate method
Basic urinalysis: $30-$60. Complete with microscopy: $50-$100. Urine culture: $75-$150. Cystocentesis collection: $20-$50. Combined with bloodwork: $150-$400 total. Basic urinalysis $50-$150
No recovery needed. Quick and minimally invasive. After cystocentesis, a small shaved area on the belly. No activity restrictions. Results discussed the same day for basic urinalysis. Culture results in 3-5 business days. No downtime - results the same day
One of the most affordable diagnostic tests. Adding a urine culture brings the total to $100-$250.
Cystocentesis carries minimal risk. Minor bruising at the puncture site is the only possible side effect. Non-invasive and well-tolerated.
Collection takes minutes. In-house results in 15-30 minutes. Culture results take 3-5 business days.
Frequent urination, blood in urine, straining, litter box issues, increased thirst. Also routine screening for cats over 7.
02/04
One of the most affordable diagnostic tests.
When ordered to investigate urinary symptoms or monitor illness, urinalysis is covered by most accident/illness policies. Includes testing for UTIs, kidney disease monitoring, diabetes detection, and crystal analysis. Standard diagnostic expense.
A urinalysis in a healthy cat annual checkup is routine and not covered. The same test ordered for straining or blood in urine is diagnostic and covered. Medical reason determines coverage.
At $50-$150, a urinalysis alone rarely exceeds your deductible. But it's rarely ordered in isolation - combined with an exam, bloodwork, and imaging, the total claim typically surpasses the deductible.
If your cat has a history of urinary problems before enrollment, related urinalysis tests may be excluded. Cats with recurring FLUTD or UTIs who switch insurers will find their urinary conditions excluded. Enroll before issues develop.
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